Joanna James
Bangkok, the captivating capital of Thailand, is a feast for the senses. Aromatic street food stalls line bustling avenues, enticing passersby with vibrant colours and enticing smells. Ditch the guidebooks and embrace your inner culinary explorer with these 5 must-try exotic street foods in Bangkok.
Gai Tod, or deep-fried chicken, is a quintessential Bangkok street food. Marinated chicken pieces are dipped in a batter infused with turmeric and other spices, resulting in a golden-brown, crispy exterior. The chicken itself remains juicy and flavorful, a delightful contrast to the crunchy exterior. Gai Tod is typically served with a side of Nam Jim Jaew, a spicy and tangy dipping sauce made with chillies, fish sauce, lime juice, and herbs. This flavorful combination is a must-try for any street food enthusiast.
For meat lovers, Bangkok's street food scene offers a plethora of options. Moo Ping, grilled pork skewers, are a popular and affordable snack. Marinated pork slices are threaded onto bamboo skewers and grilled over charcoal, resulting in a smoky and savoury treat. These skewers are usually dipped in a sweet and savoury peanut sauce, adding another layer of complexity to the flavour profile.
Kor Moo Yang, grilled skewered pork belly, is another enticing option for meat enthusiasts. Thin slices of pork belly are marinated in a mixture of garlic, lemongrass, and spices, then grilled to perfection. The resulting dish is juicy, flavorful, and boasts a satisfyingly crispy skin. Both Moo Ping and Kor Moo Yang are typically served with sticky rice, offering a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
Kai Yang, grilled chicken with sticky rice, is a classic Thai street food with a twist. Whole chickens are marinated in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, and then slowly grilled over charcoal. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a smoky aroma and a slightly charred exterior. Sticky rice, a staple in Thai cuisine, is the perfect accompaniment to this dish. The glutinous rice absorbs the rich flavours of the grilled chicken, creating a truly satisfying culinary experience.
For the truly adventurous, Goong Ten, or dancing shrimp, offers a unique and exciting culinary adventure. Live, freshwater shrimp are tossed in a spicy and tangy lime dressing, causing them to twitch and jump on the plate – hence the name "dancing shrimp." This dish is a test of courage for some, but the brave are rewarded with a surprisingly refreshing and flavorful bite. The lime juice not only adds a zesty kick but also "cooks" the shrimp slightly, resulting in a delicate and slightly sweet flavour.
Khao Pad Kai, or fried rice with crab, is a luxurious street food option that showcases the abundance of fresh seafood available at a Bangkok hotel. 5 star luxury properties such as Pathumwan Princess Hotel have excellent chefs that can whip up the best Khao Pad Kai of your life. The resulting dish is a flavourful and savoury concoction, with the sweetness of the crab meat perfectly complementing the savoury notes of the fried rice. Khao Pad Kai is typically garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime juice, adding a delightful touch of acidity.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
